Author: Platform Times Newspaper

Bauchi State’s Chief Judge, Justice Rabi Talatu Umar, has expressed grave concern over the escalating incidence of witchcraft-related cases, labeling it a persistent challenge in legal proceedings. This statement came during her two-day quarterly inspection of the Jama’are Maximum Correctional Centre, where she heads the Administration of Justice Committee. In her address, Justice Rabi remarked on the complexity of proving witchcraft accusations, noting, “If you are not a witch, you cannot identify one.” This observation underscores the inherent difficulties in adjudicating such cases unless the accused confesses. The Administration of Justice Committee, comprising key legal and security officials including the…

The chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, has appealed for the repatriation of proceeds of crimes belonging to Nigeria, held by some countries of the world. Mr Olukoyede made the appeal on Friday in Abuja during the handover of recovered proceeds of crime to the embassies of Spain, Switzerland, and the United States of America on behalf of the victims. According to him, the handover of the items to the victims is in line with the federal government’s commitment to international cooperation and synergy. The EFCC boss said it was also to prove to…

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) says a former Naval Chief, Vice Adm. Jibrin Usman is still on its wanted list. Also on its wanted list is retired Brig.-Gen. Ishaya Bauka. A statement by the ICPC Spokesperson, Demola Bakare, on Friday in Abuja said the duo were wanted over alleged N3bn fraud. Bakare said that there was still a subsisting arrest warrant against the two ex-military officers and the criminal charges against them were never withdrawn. He said any claim that the amended charges by ICPC have exonerated the duo of charges concerning embezzlement and abuse…

Daud Olatunji The Federal Government has commenced the relocation of 29 long-standing custodial centres across the country, some of which have existed for over a century, following approval by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, disclosed this on Friday while commissioning 39 mini Green Maria operational vehicles and five bullet-resistant guard booths at the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) headquarters in Abuja. “In terms of the relocation of our correctional centres, the president has graciously approved for us to start the process of relocating about 29 custodial centres across the country,” Tunji-Ojo announced. Highlighting the need for the…

The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has called for the immediate suspension of the upcoming Local Government (LG) elections in Osun State, citing escalating security threats and the likelihood of violence. The elections, scheduled for February 22, will cover 30 Local Government Areas (LGAs) and 323 wards across the state. However, recent intelligence reports have raised grave concerns over the safety and stability of the state during the polls. In a statement issued on Friday night, Muyiwa Adejobi, the police spokesperson, highlighted credible intelligence indicating that various groups, including political factions and other interest parties, were actively planning to disrupt the…

The House of Representatives Committee on Constitutional Amendment has officially rejected all 31 proposals for new state creation, citing non-compliance with constitutional requirements. The proposals, which were submitted on February 6, 2025, sparked significant attention from various regional groups seeking to expand Nigeria’s federal structure. However, according to Benjamin Kalu, Deputy Speaker of the House and Chairman of the Committee, none of the state creation requests met the constitutional provisions stipulated under Section 8 of the 1999 Constitution. Speaking at a retreat for panel members in Uyo, Akwa Ibom state, Kalu emphasized that although the proposals reflected the regional aspirations…

A Federal High Court in Lagos has ordered the final forfeiture of $4.7 million, N830 million, and several properties linked to Godwin Emefiele, the former governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), following a ruling on Friday. The court’s decision came after the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) applied for the final forfeiture of the funds and assets, which the court deemed unlawfully acquired. Presiding over the case, Justice Yellim Bogoro granted the EFCC’s application for forfeiture, ruling that the forfeited funds were held in various accounts managed by individuals and companies closely associated with Emefiele. The accounts,…

The Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Maiha, has raised serious concerns about the dangerous health implications of the processing techniques used in the production of ponmo, a popular meat product in Nigeria. Speaking at the 2025 ministerial press briefing on Friday, Maiha revealed that the current methods employed in producing hide and skin, commonly known as ponmo, are carcinogenic and hazardous to human health. The minister emphasized that the processing techniques, including the use of harmful substances like kerosene and engine oil to burn off animal hides, were not only unhygienic but also posed significant health risks, including the…

The Ogun State Deputy Governor, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele, has described the late Senator Ayodeji Otegbola as a valuable asset to both Ogun West and Ogun State at large. Speaking during a condolence visit to the Otegbola family in Lagos, the Deputy Governor highlighted the profound impact the late lawmaker made across political, professional, religious, and intellectual spheres. Engr. Salako-Oyedele, who led a prominent delegation from Ota, noted that Senator Otegbola’s contributions transcended his political career, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to shape the current leadership. She emphasized that the late senator was a source of pride not only to…

Daud Olatunji Nigerian troops have dealt a severe blow to terrorist activities across several regions, resulting in the elimination of 82 insurgents, the apprehension of 198 suspected terrorists, and the successful rescue of 93 hostages during an operation spanning from February 14 to 21, 2025. PLATFORM TIMES reports that Major General Markus Kangye, the director of Defence Media Operations, disclosed this on Thursday. Kanye said during this period, the operations extended beyond counter-terrorism efforts, with troops also making substantial gains against criminal elements involved in illegal oil activities. He said across the Niger Delta, 32 illegal refining sites were dismantled,…